Where to Get Your Driver's License in Amarillo

In Amarillo, you get your driver's license through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). The main office that handles licenses is the Amarillo Driver License Division, located at 3502 Plains Boulevard, Amarillo, TX 79102. This is where you'll take your written test, road test, and pick up your license once it's issued.

You can also renew or replace a license at certain DPS offices in surrounding areas, but for a first-time license or if you need to take a test, the Amarillo location is your destination. The office is open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though hours vary by season and can change. Call ahead at the office or check the Texas DPS website to confirm current hours before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • Texas requires you to pass a written test and a road test before you receive your first driver's license, and both happen at the DPS office in Amarillo.
  • You must bring specific documents to prove your identity, Social Security number, and Texas residency when you explore.
  • The written test covers traffic laws and road signs; the road test is a 20-minute drive with an examiner in your own vehicle or a DPS vehicle.
  • Your license is valid for six years in Texas, and renewal can be done by mail, online, or in person depending on your situation.
  • Fees vary depending on whether you're getting your first license, renewing, or replacing a lost one, and Texas accepts cash, check, and card.

Documents You Need to Bring

Before you go to the DPS office, gather the documents Texas requires. You'll need proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or military ID), proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of Texas residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days). If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must be present and bring their own ID.

If you're explore for your first license, you'll also need to bring the completed DL 44 form (process for Texas Driver License or Identification Card). You can fill this out at home before you go or at the office. Bring the original documents or certified copies—photocopies alone won't work. If any of your documents are in a language other than English, bring a certified translation as well.

The Written Test in Amarillo

The written test, called the Knowledge Test, covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You answer 30 multiple-choice questions on a computer at the DPS office. You need to score at least 21 out of 30 to pass. The test is offered in English and Spanish, and you can take it the same day you explore if you're ready.

Before you test, you can study using the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free and available online or at the DPS office. Many people also use practice tests online to get familiar with the question format. If you don't pass on your first try, you can retake the test, but you'll pay the test fee again. Most people pass on the second or third attempt if they study the handbook.

The Road Test and What to Expect

Once you pass the written test, you can schedule your road test. The test lasts about 20 minutes and covers basic driving skills: starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and following traffic laws. You can use your own vehicle (if it's registered and insured) or a DPS vehicle. The examiner sits in the passenger seat and watches how you handle the car in real traffic.

You'll drive on regular Amarillo streets, not a closed course. The examiner is looking for safe habits: checking mirrors, using turn signals, maintaining speed, and responding correctly to traffic signs and lights. Common reasons people don't pass are failing to use a turn signal, speeding, or not coming to a complete stop. If you don't pass, you can retake the test after a waiting period, and you'll pay the test fee again.

Fees and Payment Methods

The cost of your first driver's license in Texas is $33 for a six-year license if you're 18 or older. If you're under 18, the cost is $16 for a four-year license. These fees cover the written test, road test, and the license itself. If you need to retake either test, you pay an additional fee per test attempt (usually around $10 to $15, though this varies). The DPS office accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card.

If you lose your license or need a replacement, that's a separate fee (typically $11). Renewal fees are lower than the cost of a first license because you don't retake the tests. Keep in mind that fees can change, so confirm the current amount when you call or visit the office.

How Long It Takes to Get Your License

The timeline depends on how quickly you pass both tests. If you pass the written test and road test on the same day, you'll receive a temporary paper license that's valid for 45 days while your plastic card is printed and mailed to you. The plastic license usually arrives within two to three weeks. If you need to retake a test, add time between attempts—there's typically a waiting period of a few days to a week before you can retake.

During busy seasons (summer and early fall), the DPS office can have longer wait times, so arriving early or scheduling an appointment if available can help. Once your plastic license arrives, it's valid for six years from the date it was issued.

Renewing or Replacing Your License

If your license is expiring or you've lost it, renewal and replacement work differently. You can renew your license online through the Texas DPS website if you meet certain conditions (your license isn't suspended, you haven't had a major change in your medical status, and you're not changing your name). Online renewal is the fastest option and costs less than in-person renewal.

If you can't renew online, you can renew by mail by sending in your current license and the renewal fee, or you can go to the DPS office in person. If your license is lost or stolen, you must go to the office in person to get a replacement. Bring your ID and residency documents, just as you did for your first license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the road test in a vehicle with an automatic transmission if I learned to drive a manual?

Yes. You can take the road test in any vehicle you're comfortable driving. However, if you pass the test in an automatic, your license will have a restriction that you can only drive automatics. If you want to drive a manual, you'll need to retake the road test in a manual vehicle.

What happens if I fail the road test?

You can retake the road test after a waiting period (usually a few days). You'll pay the test fee again each time you retake it. There's no limit to how many times you can retake the test, so keep practicing and try again.

Do I need an appointment to take the written or road test in Amarillo?

Appointments are not always required, but the DPS office may offer them during busy times. Call the Amarillo office ahead of time to ask whether you need one and to find out current wait times. Walk-ins are usually accepted, but you may wait longer.

Can I get my license the same day I explore?

You can pass both tests the same day and receive a temporary paper license when ready. Your plastic license card arrives by mail within two to three weeks. You can drive legally with the temporary license during that time.

What if I move out of Amarillo after I get my license?

Your Texas driver's license is valid anywhere in Texas and nationwide. You don't need to update it when you move within Texas unless you change your address. You can update your address online, by mail, or at any DPS office.